News / Society
Police under fire for LGBT rainbow uniforms
A former Ukip councillor has accused police of wasting funds on rainbow epaulettes ahead of this weekend’s Pride march through Bristol.
Officers showed off the colourful new shoulder dressings, which they will be donning in support of the city’s LGBT communities, on social media.
But the LGBT Liason Unit came under fire from Ben Walker, defeated Ukip councillor for Bradley Stoke and parliamentary candidate for Filton and Bradley Stoke at the last elections.
is needed now More than ever
@ASPoliceLGBT @ASPolice @wearefest Is that really best use of funds? Why don’t you have some for #BCFC home games & #ShaunTheSheep Trail?
— Ben Walker (@BenWalkerFABS) July 7, 2015
He added that he supported the Pride march “but just not sure on a cash strapped organisation spending to do so”.
Other commentators were split over the special epaulettes which will replace the traditional black, with individual officers’ identification numbers embroidered on.
Police defended the uniform additions which they said were a “visual display of unity at a minimal cost”.
Annabelle Walter also jumped to the defence of the police. She said: “They’re so good! Such a good way of sending a strong message with little cost.
Elaine Ashley added: “As straight friend of the rainbow, these epaulettes give me more trust in police – small cost for that.”
But Gustavo asked: “Should police really be making statements like this, though?”
Geoff Templeton added: “’I’m sorry, but this a real waste of money in these hard times every penny counts.”
Bristol Pride Festival takes place on Saturday, July 11, with a parade from Queen Square to Castle Park at 11am.
Avon and Somerset’s LGBT Liaison Unit are a mix of officers and police staff who have special training on LGBT issues.
Gareth Morgan, temporary deputy chief constable, who is due to attend the march, said: “We want to send a clear message that homophobic and transphobic hate crimes will not be tolerated in our city, and encourage anyone who experiences or witnesses hate crime to speak to us. Support is available and we will always do everything we can to bring people to justice.”
The team are looking forward to seeing you all in Castle Park #Bristol for @wearefest 2015 on Saturday 11th July pic.twitter.com/9a2RvOtpxG
— ASPolice LGBT (@ASPoliceLGBT) July 7, 2015